Breast Cancer Awareness You may know someone who has been diagnosed with breast cancer or be familiar with the pink ribbons often used to show support for those with the disease. Breast cancer is the second most common cancer among U.S. women and can also affect men. Among women Warfighters, about 13% have breast cancer. What Is Breast Cancer? Breast cancer occurs when cells in the breast begin growing uncontrollably. New cells may grow when they aren’t needed, while old cells stick around. These extra cells can cause tumors. There are four different types of breast cancer, based on where the cancer starts. Invasive Ductal CarcinomaInvasive ductal carcinoma is the most common type of breast cancer, accounting for 70-80% of cases. It begins in the ducts, which are the tubes that transport milk to the nipple. The cancer can spread to other parts of the breast and possibly throughout the body. Invasive Lobular CarcinomaInvasive lobular carcinoma is the second most common type of breast cancer, making up around 10% to 15% of cases. It begins in the lobules, where milk is made in the breast. The cancer can then spread to other parts of the breast and possibly throughout the body. Inflammatory Breast CancerInflammatory breast cancer occurs when cancer cells spread to the skin of the breast and block the lymph vessels. It is a rare type of invasive ductal carcinoma that grows and spreads faster than other forms of breast cancer. Paget’s Disease of the BreastPaget’s disease of the breast begins in the nipple and areola, which is the skin that surrounds the nipple. It is a rare type of breast cancer that causes tingling or itchiness of the breast and is often confused with skin problems like eczema. Tumors may also be present within the affected breast. What Are the Signs of Breast Cancer? Knowing how your breasts normally look and feel can help you notice if something is unusual. It’s recommended to perform a monthly self-exam to check for early signs of cancer. Breast cancer symptoms vary by person, and some people may not have any. If symptoms are present, they might include: Image caption could go here. A new lump in the breast or armpit Thickening or swelling in part of the breast Dimpling or puckering of breast skin (e.g., looks like the skin of an orange) Red, flaky or scaly skin on the breast or nipple area An inverted nipple (e.g., nipple pulled into the breast) Abnormal discharge from the nipple (e.g., not breast milk) Changes in breast size or shape Pain in any part of the breast If you have any of these symptoms, it may not mean you have breast cancer. Schedule an appointment with your health care provider to discuss your concerns. What Is Breast Cancer Screening? Breast cancer screening can help you find cancer early, before symptoms appear. There are two main types of screening tests. Your health care provider will recommend what is right for you based on your cancer risk, age and other factors. MammogramsMammogramsMammograms are the most common breast cancer screening tool. They are x-rays of the breast tissue that can show abnormal changes before external signs develop. TRICARE covers annual mammograms for women who are 40 years and older. For women at higher risk, they may be covered beginning at age 30. Learn more about TRICARE coverage for mammograms. Breast MRIsBreast MRIsBreast magnetic resonance imaging, or a breast MRI, is typically only recommended for women at higher risk of breast cancer. These tests take detailed pictures of the breasts with radio waves and a magnet, so there is no radiation exposure. TRICARE covers breast MRIs for women 30 and above with a high breast cancer risk. Learn more about TRICARE coverage for breast MRIs. What Raises My Risk of Breast Cancer Breast cancer occurs as a result of genetic changes. You may be born with these changes or develop them later in life. Though their exact cause is unknown, certain factors may increase your risk. Image caption could go here. Getting older A family history of breast or ovarian cancer Dimpling or puckering of breast skin (e.g., looks like the skin of an orange) Having dense breasts Going through radiation therapy of the chest or breasts Never giving birth or first pregnancy after the age of 30 Starting menstruation before age 12 or menopause after age 55 How Can I Lower My Breast Cancer Risk? Even though many risk factors can’t be changed, you can still take steps to protect yourself. Lead a healthy lifestyle and limit your estrogen exposure to help lower your risk of breast cancer. Prev Next 1 of Engage in regular physical activity Drink alcohol in moderation, or not at all. Maintain a healthy weight. Choose to breastfeed, if possible. Limit hormone therapy. Breast cancer is a threat to your health and readiness. However, when caught early, it’s much easier to treat. Regularly examine your breasts and attend screening appointments to find and treat breast cancer before it spreads. Additional ResourcesAmerican Cancer Society - “Breast Cancer”Centers for Disease Control and Prevention - “Breast Cancer”National Cancer Institute - “Breast Cancer – Patient Version”ReferencesCenters for Disease Control and Prevention - “Breast Cancer Basics”Centers for Disease Control and Prevention - “Breast Cancer Risk Factors”Centers for Disease Control and Prevention - “Reducing Risk for Breast Cancer”Centers for Disease Control and Prevention - “Screening for Breast Cancer”Centers for Disease Control and Prevention - “Symptoms of Breast Cancer”Department of Defense. - “Incidence of Breast Cancer Among Members of the Armed Forces Services on Active Duty.”National Cancer Institute - “Breast Cancer Prevention”National Cancer Institute - “Breast Cancer Screening”Medline Plus - “Breast Cancer”TRICARE - “Breast Exams”
